System and method for a browser-based virtual desktop system

ABSTRACT

A virtual desktop data storage retrieval system that allows a plurality of user accounts each to create one or more virtual desktops. These are maintained and managed on a system computer running one or more virtual servers and communicated over a network to a user&#39;s browser on a user device. The browser-based virtual desktops provide the account user&#39;s functionally, and allow data transfer to and from a virtual storage system associated with the system computer. The system allows each account user to have one or more changeable virtual desktops with changeable icons and changeable icon functions reflecting the account user&#39;s preferences. Each account user can create and share one or more virtual desktop, its icons, and functions associated with the selected icons with another account user&#39;s virtual desktop while setting up file rights for each assigned shared account user, and controlling which functions the shared account users can perform.

BACKGROUND Field of the Invention

The present invention relates generally to computer browser systems, andmore particularly to a system and method of a browser-based virtualdesktop system.

Description of the Problem Solved

A typical computer operating system displays a single desktop. Thisleads to very limited ability to have an open work space. Every file orfunction that is not shown on the desktop is hidden somewhere on a diskor in the operating system. To find such files, or other information, auser is forced to use a menu or directory or to perform a search.Present systems do not provide for the fact that computer userstypically perform different tasks on their computers all within the samedesktop. Prior art systems use a single desktop that is part of theoperating system. Icons, folders and anything else found on the desktopare kept in an operating system file on the user device.

What is badly needed is a system and method that provides any number ofvirtual desktops on demand (including one), so that when a user wishesto perform a specific task, keeping it separate from another, a totallyseparate desktop can be displayed. A virtual desktop would be a desktop(with icons, files, folders and the like) that is presented on abrowser, is not part of the user device operating system, but rather ismaintained on a virtual server that runs on a remote system computer andsupplied to the browser over a network.

It would be very advantageous if each of the virtual desktops had itsown set of icons attached to files and functions that represent theparticular unique subject matter addressed by that particular virtualdesktop.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a virtual desktop system that includesa remote system computer having a processor coupled to a memory. Theremote system computer runs one or more virtual servers that providevirtual desktops to any number of user devices over a network. The userdevices run only a browser, with the virtual desktops being supplied to,and displayed by the browser on each user device. The virtual serveralso manages user accounts, where each user account is allowed to createone or more virtual desktops and/or sub-accounts. Each virtual desktoprelates to particular subject matter and can include one or more iconsattached to files, or functions related to the particular subject matterof the virtual desktop. Each user device is connected to the network andincludes a display and local storage. The virtual server verifies useraccess information received from the user device for a particular useraccount to create and display the virtual desktops and the icons on thedisplay for that account. The present invention allows each user accountto select one or more icons and attach them to files or functions, andallows each user account the ability to add a unique picture file as acustom icon on any of the virtual desktops. The system allows each useraccount to also select an icon from a library of icons and place it on avirtual desktop for access to particular files or functions, or allowseach user account to leave the icons in an options tab and still haveaccess to the attached files or function attached to the particularicons. The system allows each user account to view or edit icons, viewor edit files, view or edit virtual desktops with a browser.

Each user account can also create and manage one or more sub-accountsand associate virtual desktops including icons with sub-account users,or can share virtual desktops, icons with functions with other primaryaccount users. An account user can create virtual desktops and iconswith functions for data storage and can share data files with otheraccount users controlling all file rights functions for each sharedaccount user using the its browser and the Internet as the network. Anaccount user can create a virtual desktop and add a second password forsecured access to it. The system optionally allows an account user toshare any virtual desktop with another account user by adding only theiremail address. All shared desktops and file access by the secondaryaccount user is controlled by the primary account user.

The operating system on the user device is typically only used toperform low level functions such as driving the screen, storage andretrieval of local files, network access and the like. All virtualdesktop activity, file storage, file sharing occurs on the virtualserver running on the system computer. A user can access the system withany device having a web browser and a network connection, such as to theInternet, to have full access to the virtual desktop and systemcomputer. The system computer can run any number of virtual serverssimultaneously. In particular, the user device can be a mobile telephoneor handheld smart device.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Attention is now directed to several figures the illustrate features ofthe present invention.

FIG. 1. shows the index page with signup and login links.

FIG. 2. shows the signup page.

FIG. 3. shows the first virtual desktop screen after login with no iconson desktop.

FIG. 4. shows the first virtual desktop screen after login with icons ondesktop.

FIG. 5. shows the options menu drop down.

FIG. 6. shows the options menu drop down showing icons and features auser can select, add or edit for icons, virtual desktop, document.

FIG. 7. shows the tool menu drop down features.

FIG. 8. shows the help menu drop down, an account user can look up afunction or feature and read more about how it works in helping theaccount user use the system.

FIG. 9. shows a list of the created virtual desktops to select from in adrop down menu.

FIG. 10. shows the options menu drop down showing an account user canadd, edit or delete icons or virtual desktops.

FIG. 11. shows the options menu drop down showing an account user canadd, edit or delete a document.

FIG. 12. shows the options menu drop down showing an account user canadd, edit or delete a music file.

FIG. 13. shows the options menu drop down showing an account user canadd, edit or delete a picture file.

FIG. 14. shows the options menu drop down showing an account user canadd, edit or delete a hyper link bookmark for places they shop online.

FIG. 15. shows the options menu drop down showing an account user canadd, edit or delete a hyper link bookmark for places they order foodfrom online.

FIG. 16. shows the options menu drop down showing an account user canadd, edit or delete a video movie file.

FIG. 17. shows the options menu drop down showing an account user canadd, edit or delete a address book.

FIG. 18. shows the options menu drop down showing an account user canadd, edit or delete a clock timer.

FIG. 19. shows the options menu drop down showing an account user canadd, edit or delete a reminder.

FIG. 20. shows the options menu drop down showing an account user canadd, edit or delete a calendar.

FIG. 21. shows the options menu drop down showing an account user canadd, edit or delete a scheduler.

FIG. 22. shows the options menu drop down showing an account user canadd, edit or delete a client appointment book.

FIG. 23. shows the options menu drop down showing an account user canadd, edit or delete a note pad.

FIG. 24. shows the options menu drop down showing an account user canadd, edit or delete a email.

FIG. 25. shows the options menu drop down showing an account user canadd, edit or delete other data files and software programs.

FIG. 26. shows a work virtual desktop with shared files on left andshared users on the right.

FIG. 27. shows a shared virtual desktop with primary user files on theleft and the shared sub users with their files on the right.

FIG. 28. shows a private virtual desktop with personal files.

FIG. 29. shows a media virtual desktop with music, movies and picturesfiles and devices connected for viewing and listening.

FIG. 30 shows the options menu drop down with the last option allowingthe addition of anything.

FIG. 31 is a flow diagram of a logon.

FIG. 32 is a flow diagram of embodiments of various options.

FIG. 33 is a flow diagram of an embodiment of the tools function.

FIG. 34 is a flow diagram of an embodiment of the help function.

FIG. 35 is a flow example of a system with several different virtualdesktops created.

FIG. 36 shows the a block diagram of an embodiment of the presentinvention.

Several illustrations have been presented to aid in understanding thepresent invention. The scope of the present invention is not limited towhat is shown in the figures.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The present invention relates to a system, method and computer programproduct for storing, viewing, editing and sharing digital files and datausing one or more multiple virtual desktops for each account user thatare displayed on a browser running on a user device. The user device canbe any device capable of running a browser and connecting to a network.The system allows each account user to create multiple virtual desktopsfor individual functions such as: one or more virtual desktops forstorage, retrieval, viewing and editing of: documents, pictures, addressbooks, hyper link bookmarks, calendars, schedulers, note pads, clientappointment books, media storage, media viewing, media listening, securedata safes, video conferencing, emails with attachments, clock timedtasks and reminders. The system allows each account user to create oneor more virtual desktops for sharing digital files and data with otheraccount users' virtual desktop while controlling the shared virtualdesktop, icons, files and functions of the icons for each allowed sharedaccount user. The system allows all these functions to be available andexecuted with a user device having a browser and using the Internet as anetwork. While the Internet is preferred, any network is within thescope of the present invention.

An embodiment of the present invention is a virtual desktop system thatis browser-based that stores an account user's files. The system allowseach account user to have the ability to select icons within the virtualdesktop system and assign functions or files to that icon. The systemallows each user account the ability to add (upload) pre-made or customicons into the virtual desktop system using any picture file type to bean icon. (JPEG, JFIF, JPEG 2000, Exif, TIFF, GIF, BMP, PNG, PPM, PGM,PBM, PNM or other types). The system allows each account user theability to assign any icon on any virtual desktop to a custom functionor to files for that account user.

The system allows each account user also the ability to select an iconand put it on a virtual desktop for easy access to the function or filesassociated with the icon. The system allows each account user theability to assign an icon for custom functions and files for eachvirtual desktop within an account user. For example, making a virtualdesktop for word docs (or any other type of office files excel, powerpoint, PDF and so on), making another virtual desktop for music files,another for an address book, another for notes, another for a clock andtimer, another for a shared virtual desktop, another for a reminderfunction, another for saved emails, another for the scheduler, anotherfor internet hyper links (bookmarks), and another for any type of fileor function within the system.

The system allows each account user the ability to create multiplevirtual desktops within one user account and choose whether or not toadd a second password for access to that virtual desktop for addedsecurity. For example, the ability to create multiple virtual desktops:one virtual desktop for home files, one virtual desktop for work files,one virtual desktop for sharing files, one virtual desktop for privatefiles, one virtual desktop for movies, one virtual desktop for musicfiles and so on. The movie virtual desktop can store movie files thatcan be viewed on any television or monitor with network access. Themusic virtual desktop can store music files that can be played on anydevice with a browser and network access.

The system allows each virtual desktop for an account user typically tohave its own storage place to: upload files, download files, storefiles, view files, edit files, share files, (with another account user)and create files within the virtual desktop that are associated with anaccount user and is a separate virtual desktop from other createdvirtual desktops within the same account user.

Each virtual desktop has the full features of putting icons on thatvirtual desktop with its features and file options attached to icons onthat virtual desktop. The system allows each virtual desktop to sharefiles with another user account by sharing the virtual desktop withanother account user. Once this is done, the second shared account willhave the additional virtual desktop in their list of desktops. Thesystem allows each virtual desktop account user the ability of becominga primary user giving permissions to another selected virtual desktopaccount user in sharing a selected virtual desktop its icons and fileswhich will be displayed in the other account user's menu referred to nowas a sub-account user.

The system allows each virtual desktop the ability to share icons, filesand virtual desktops by attaching an email address to a selected sharedvirtual desktop in the first account user with its shared files andpermissions set. Permissions can be set to: none, view only, edit allfiles, edit some selected files, re-share files, no re-share files,download files, upload files, change icon functions, not able to changeicon functions, limited edits.

An account user can create a special login link unique just to that useraccount to login with their user their name and password. When this linkis created and active, it will disable the main page login. The reasonbehind this feature is security. If someone obtains a user name andpassword and tries to login in at the main page, it will not let thatperson into that account.

The system allows adding an email address to a selected shared virtualdesktop and generates an email to that person's email address. Anotification is sent letting that user know they have shared fileswaiting. There is a link within their email that can be clicked on. Thatuser can login to their account or create a new account. Once logged inunder the “My Desktops” tab, a dropdown shows the shared virtual desktopwith icons and files.

The system allows a first virtual desktop account user to share filesand icon functions with another virtual desktop account user settingfile rights making the first virtual desktop account user the primaryaccount user and the second virtual desktop account user the subaccount. The system allows each icon, file and desktop function of avirtual desktop to be controlled by the account user that initiates thesharing feature, which makes them the primary account user. The secondaccount user is a sub account user.

Simultaneous virtual desktop sharing is also possible. The system allowseach user account the ability to simultaneously share virtual desktopsas well as icons and files with another account user. The account userthat initiates the sharing option to another account is the primaryaccount to the shared sub account. That sub account user can also sharefiles back with the first account user making them the sub account useronly for those shared files.

In each shared virtual desktop, the owner of the first account (primary)will have their shared files displayed on one side (such as the leftside) of their virtual desktop, and for the second account (sub account)that shares files back with the primary account user, those files willbe displayed on the other side (such as the right side) of the primaryaccount's virtual desktop. Each account is a primary account and subaccount to each other.

The system allows each account users virtual desktop to set securityfeatures such as: enabling a device to login and using a created virtualdesktop and features; enabling a password on or off option for theaccount user to login; or adding another password for each createdvirtual desktop.

The option tab appearing on the virtual desktop has the ability to addin new features per user requirement such as virtual work order forms,virtual inventory and any other business function per individualbusiness needs.

Compatibility problems and ease of use are common issues with multiplestep, installed, synced, non compatible application API software. Thepresent invention's browser based virtual desktop makes it extremelyeasy for an account user to store, retrieve, share, view, listen, streamand edit digital files within the system, and it provides one place forall digital data files using a device's browser and network connection.The system allows an account user to create one virtual desktop for homepersonal digital files that is separate from another created virtualdesktop for work files. Both are accessible from the account user'sdevices using a browser with no installed API software needed. Thevirtual desktop data storage retrieval system has the many features andfunctionally business professionals need as an all-in-one solution. Thevirtual desktop can also be used for storage and retrieval of largeemail attachments which prior art email systems were not designed for.Sharing large attachment files using the virtual desktop is just onefeature of the present invention. The virtual desktop is a solution formany industries, since emails with attached files are many times toolarge for standard email systems to handle.

The system allows an account user to create a virtual desktop fordigital music and video files that can be listened to and watched with amusic or screen device with a browser and the Internet as the network.

While the description above concentrates on file sharing betweenmultiple users, the present invention includes the embodiment of oneuser with one device and one or more virtual desktops.

Attention is now directed to the following figures that illustratefeatures of the present invention.

FIG. 1. shows the index page with signup and login links.

FIG. 2. shows the signup page.

FIG. 3. shows the first virtual desktop screen after login with no iconson desktop.

FIG. 4. shows the first virtual desktop screen after login with icons ondesktop.

FIG. 5. shows the options menu drop down showing icons and features auser can select, add or edit for icons, virtual desktop, documents,music files, picture files, website shopping hyper links, foodrestaurants hyper links, movies files, address book, clock timer,reminders, calendar, scheduler, client appointment book, notes, savedemails, other saved data.

FIG. 6. shows the options menu drop down showing icons and features auser can select, add or edit for icons, virtual desktop, documents,music files, picture files, website shopping hyper links, foodrestaurants hyper links, movies files, address book, clock timer,reminders, calendar, scheduler, client appointment book, notes, savedemails, other saved data with some icons put on the virtual desktop.

FIG. 7. shows the tool menu drop down features, a account user canselect a option for adding personal information and editing and setupoptions for features of the system: (my account) is for the accountusers personal and billing information, (my data safe), is a separatedstorage with a extra password to access files stored in the safe.(Advanced customization), an account user can change the color and lookof the icons, text font and background colors. (setup desktop filesharing) an account user can setup the virtual desktop sharing beingable to control file rights for each icon and attached files, (add videoconferencing) an account user can add video conferencing to a sharedvirtual desktop with each attached shared user video displayed on theright side of the virtual desktop, (enable mobile device) an accountuser can enable any mobile device to have access to any virtual desktopand control what that mobile device can view or edit. (setup security)an account user can setup allow IP addresses for specific areas of theworld to have access to the system user. Meaning my home IP and devicescan have access but another location cannot. Its controls the IP addresslike a firewall.

FIG. 8. shows the help menu drop down, an account user can look up afunction or feature and read more about how it works in helping theaccount user use the system.

FIG. 9. shows a list of the created virtual desktops to select from in adrop down menu.

FIG. 10. shows the options menu drop down showing an account user canadd, edit or delete icons or virtual desktop.

FIG. 11. shows the options menu drop down showing an account user canadd, edit or delete a document.

FIG. 12. shows the options menu drop down showing an account user canadd, edit or delete a music file.

FIG. 13. shows the options menu drop down showing an account user canadd, edit or delete a picture file.

FIG. 14. shows the options menu drop down showing an account user canadd, edit or delete a hyper link bookmark for placed they shop online.

FIG. 15. shows the options menu drop down showing an account user canadd, edit or delete a hyper link bookmark for placed they order foodfrom online.

FIG. 16. shows the options menu drop down showing an account user canadd, edit or delete a video movie file.

FIG. 17. shows the options menu drop down showing an account user canadd, edit or delete a address book.

FIG. 18. shows the options menu drop down showing an account user canadd, edit or delete a clock timer to keep track of the time when workingon a project or watching an online auction. The account user can set upan alarm sound that will sound off when the designated time is reached.

FIG. 19. shows the options menu drop down showing an account user canadd, edit or delete a reminder. This is perfect for birthdays and renewservices. The account user can set up a reminder for any time period andhave it repeat as often as desired. And email is sent and or an alarmsound will go off when the designated date is reached. The email andalarm sound can be set to go off at a specific time during thedesignated date it does not have to go off at 12:01 am the day of.

FIG. 20. shows the options menu drop down showing an account user canadd, edit or delete a calendar. The account user can set up a calendarand place it on any virtual desktop. The account user can also set up asecond separate calendar for multiple account users to share. Theaccount user can combine any dates of any calendar to show on onecalendar.

FIG. 21. shows the options menu drop down showing an account user canadd, edit or delete a scheduler. The account user can set up a schedulerand place it on any virtual desktop or on its own or connect it to anycalendar as a click through per date day. The account user can also setup a second separate scheduler for multiple account users to share. Theaccount user can combine any time and dates of any scheduler to show onone scheduler.

FIG. 22. shows the options menu drop down showing an account user canadd, edit or delete a client appointment book. The account user can setup a client appointment book for any business that book appointments.This feature is great for hair salons or medical offices.

FIG. 23. shows the options menu drop down showing an account user canadd, edit or delete a note pad. The account user can set up a note padand place it on any virtual desktop or. The account user can also set upa second separate note pad for multiple account users to share. Theaccount user can combine any note pads to show on one note pad.

FIG. 24. shows the options menu drop down showing an account user canadd, edit or delete a email. The account user can forward importantemails manually or set up an auto email forward from their email accountto the email storage system.

FIG. 25. shows the options menu drop down showing an account user canadd, edit or delete other data files and software programs. The accountuser can upload and store any type of digital data files for any format.This feature is great for storing software programs.

FIG. 26. shows a work virtual desktop with shared users' icons andfiles. Files displayed on the left side are the primary account user'sfiles that are shared with a list of sub account users displayed on theright side of the virtual desktop. Files rights can be setup forviewing, editing or re-sharing for each account user and each icon andfile shared. Each account user has the ability to simultaneously shareicons with files and virtual desktops with another account user. Theaccount user that initiates the sharing option to another account useris the primary account user to the shared sub account user. That subaccount user can also share icons with files back to the first accountuser making them the sub account user only for those shared icon andfiles.

FIG. 27. shows a shared virtual desktop with shared users' icons andfiles. Files displayed on the left side are the primary account user'sfiles that are shared with a list of sub account users displayed on theright side of the virtual desktop. Permissions can be set to: none, viewonly, edit all files, edit some selected files, re-share files, nore-share files, download files, upload files, change icon functions, notable to change icon functions, or limited edits for each account userand each icon and file shared. Each account user has the ability tosimultaneously share icons with files and virtual desktops with anotheraccount user. The account user that initiates the sharing option toanother account user is the primary account user to the shared subaccount user. That sub account user can also share icons with files backto the first account user making them the sub account user only forthose shared icon and files.

FIG. 28. shows a private virtual desktop with stored files and icons.The account user can create this virtual desktop for private use only.The account user can setup an additional password for this virtualdesktop for extra security.

FIG. 29. shows a media virtual desktop with devices connected and storedfiles and icons. The account user can create this virtual desktop forstoring all their music and video files. The account user can then watchor listen the selected file on the account users device being a mobilecomputer stereo or tv with a browser and internet connection.

FIG. 30 shows the options menu drop down with the last option allowingthe addition of anything. This makes it easy for a business to add awork order or the like for example.

A particular feature of embodiments of the present invention is accountcreation. The system allows an account user to create an account bynavigating with the user device's browser to the signup page and fillingin the users email address as the user ID and creating a password at thesignup menu. An email with a link is sent to that email address toverify the new account user. When the new user opens their email andclicks on the supplied link this activates the new account. Once theuser account is active the account user can log into the virtual systemby using their device's browser. The first virtual screen after login isthe home virtual desktop. There are dropdown menu links at the top withall the options and tools to create icons, which the account user canattach functions and files to each created icon and create multiplevirtual desktops. The system allows the account user to then leave thaticon in the dropdown menu tab or place that icon on any virtual desktopfor easy access to that function or file. The system allows the accountuser to create multiple virtual desktops, one for work files, anotherfor personal files, and another for shared files. Each virtual desktopdisplays a top menu bar with all the features of the system. The systemallows the account user to share any of the virtual desktops they havecreated with another account user, or setup one separate shared virtualdesktop for multiple account users, or create a separate shared virtualdesktop for each individual shared user, keeping them all separate. Allare accessible and controlled by the primary account user who createdthem.

Setting up shared files is very easy. The system allows the account userto select any virtual desktop or create a new separate shared virtualdesktop. From that virtual desktop any icons with the attached filesassociated with that virtual desktop can be shared with another accountuser by clicking on the tool drop down menu and selecting

(Setup Desktop File Sharing).

The tool function lets the account user add a person's email address. Ifthe email address is in the system then the virtual desktop is sharedwith that account user. If the email is not in the system then an emailwith a link to create a new account is sent to that email address.

The system allows the account user to then select which icons with filescan be shared with the shared account user. The system allows theaccount user to also setup file rights for each icon and files as towhat functions the shared account user can have access to. Permissionscan be set to: none, view only, edit all files, edit some selectedfiles, re-share files, no re-share files, download files, upload files,change icon functions, not able to change icon functions, or limitededits. While this list of permissions is exemplary, any other set ofpermissions is also within the scope of the present invention.

The system allows each account user the ability to simultaneously shareicons with files and virtual desktop with another account user. Theaccount user that initiates the sharing option to another account useris the primary account user to the shared sub account user. That subaccount user can also share icons with files back to the first accountuser making them the sub account user only for those shared icon andfiles.

When the account user has selected their shared virtual desktop forviewing, the account users shared icons with attached files aredisplayed on the left side of their virtual desktop. Displayed on theright side of there virtual desktop shows a list of shared icons andattached files from other account users shared files back with the firstaccount user.

The system allows other functions and features of the virtual desktopdata storage retrieval system such as, storage of any type of data filesincluding documents, pictures, music, video, hyper links and all typesof digital data files and software. The virtual desktop data storageretrieval system has built in features for which the account user cancreate multiples of the same features. These features include: addressbook, clock timer, reminder, calendar, scheduler, note pad, emailstorage, client appointment book, media storage, music and videostreaming, secure data safe, video conferencing and virtual desktop.

The virtual desktop data storage retrieval system is designed for both apersonal user and business users. The system allows the account user toupload their own picture files to replace the default icons in thesystem and can change the text font, background skin and colors.

FIG. 31 shows an embodiment of a login function. From the login screen,the user enters a password. The system verifies that the user logging onis an account user. If so, the user sees the main virtual desktop screenthat allows the user to click an options icon, a tools icon, a help iconor on my desktops. While this is the starting screen, menus for all ofthese functions appear on every virtual desktop.

FIG. 32 shows a flow chart of the options function. There are numerousoptions possible that the user can use including, but not limited to,add icons or virtual desktops, add a document to a virtual desktop, adda music file, add a picture, add shopping hyperlinks, add foodhyperlinks, add movie files, access an address book, access a clocktimer, access and update reminders, access a calendar, access ascheduler, access a client appointment book, access notes, access savedemails and access other saved data files. There are numerous otherpossibilities for options. Any option for any function is within thescope of the present invention.

FIG. 33 shows a flow chart of the tools function. Tools allow a user topaccess his account, his data safe, customize a desktop or screen, setupfile sharing, access video conferencing, enable a mobile drive and setupsecurity by selecting or blocking various IP addresses.

FIG. 34 shows a flow chart of the help function. The help menu answersvarious “how do I . . . ? type questions such as how do I share a fileor how do I create a new desktop. Typically, the help function attemptsto have an answer about how to use every feature of the system.

FIG. 35 shows a chain of created virtual desktops that derive from themain virtual desktop. In this particular example, there are severalchoices: my desktops which shows all created virtual desktops asselections; select the home desktop; select work desktop; select shareddesktop (one that can be accessed by another user); select privatedesktop; and select media desktop. FIG. 35 is for example only. Anynumber of other desktop selections are within the scope of the presentinvention.

The system of the present invention runs with various computerequipment. For example, a system computer attached to a network is ameans for providing system functions and control such as servers, diskstorage, mass storage, cloud computers. The system computer has a meansfor storing and accessing data that can include disk storage, massstorage, random access memory (RAM), read only memory (ROM), flashmemory and any other type of memory or storage device. The systemcomputer can run one or many virtual servers that each act asindependent systems on the server and provide a means for creatingvirtual desktops when users request them on their user devices. Thesystem allows a user device as a means for providing local access to thesystem computer and can be a PC, laptop, tablet, smart or dumbtelephone, or other computing device or any device capable ofcommunicating over a network. The system allows access to the virtualserver through a browser means which can be a standard browser such asChrome™, Firefox™, Internet Explorer™ or any other browser. The localdevice also has local storage in the form of disk memory, mechanical orsolid state, random access memory (RAM), read only memory (ROM),insertable memory modules or any other type of memory device.

It is important to note that the operating system on the user device isused only for low level functions such as accessing local files, runningthe browser and network access. This virtual desktop storage system usesthe user device browser and network to access all of the virtualdesktops, icons, and data files supplied by the virtual server over thenetwork to the browser. All file storage and sharing is handled by thevirtual server on the system computer using the system storage means.

While the virtual desktops of the present invention may be stored,represented and transmitted in a very simple markup language such asHypertext Markup Language (HTML), it is far more efficient to assign toeach user-created virtual desktop formatting or style using a technologysuch as Cascading Style Sheets (CSS) and to create actions of icons onthe virtual desktop using a script language such as JavaScript. Whileboth CSS and JavaScript are known in the art, they have not beenassociated with chains of hierarchical virtual desktops. Thus, thelayout, colors, fonts and all physical formatting of each virtualdesktop can be represented in separate or the same style sheets whichare transmitted only once from the server when the virtual desktop iscreated.

Since the present invention involves hierarchical chains of virtualdesktops, an inheritance property of the style language can be animportant tool. For example, the general look of a newly created virtualdesktop can be inherited from the virtual desktop that created it.Alternatively, the format of the newly created virtual desktop can bealtered or redesigned as it is created overriding the inheritancefeature of the style language.

Icon functions or actions can likewise be inherited. This can be thesimple inheritance of a link to a file or section of script languagewhich can be passed at creation time by the style language. Thus, insome embodiments, like icons on child virtual desktops can perform thesame generic functions via the script language as they performed on theparent virtual desktop. While the generic function is the same, theactual result can be different. For example, an icon to a calendar onthe parent virtual desktop may point to a different calendar than thesame calendar icon on the child virtual desktop; however, the supportingscript may be the same by inheritance from the style language withsimply a different calendar pointer.

The virtual desktop integrates other hardware devices like a streamingstereo or a streaming television in the virtual desktop with an internetconnection or internal hub, router (wired or wireless), and using thecomputer's browser to control functions and content that is stored bythe user account. The virtual desktop is a virtual VCR for video contentand a virtual cassette deck for audio content. In addition, the virtualdesktop integrates a virtual mobile device that can store voice mails,phone calls and other personal data into the virtual desktop storagesafe.

The virtual desktop also integrates other hardware devices that use theinternet to pass data such as door bell cameras, baby monitors, sensors,actuators, gadgets, appliances, machines, IoT devices, smoke detectors,refrigerators, smart lighting heating systems, automobiles, smartwatches and medical devices.

Turning to FIG. 36, a virtual server 1 is seen. A hierarchical chain ofthree desktops 2 a, 2 b, 2 c exist on the virtual server and on userdevices. User device A 3 a is displaying virtual desktop 2. Device 3 acan display many other virtual desktops. User device B 3 b is displayingvirtual desktop 2. Each virtual desktop is formatted using a stylelanguage including cascading style sheets 4. Icons, that can come fromIcon Library 6 can appear on any virtual desktop, and can be linked toother virtual desktops with a script language 5. Physical television 7is shown in two-way communication 8 with user device A 3 a. Thetelevision image 10 a and audio can be played on virtual desktop 2, orany other virtual desktop (image 10 b). The content and controlfunctions for the television 7 can originate from a browser 9 on one ofthe desktops.

Finally, the virtual desktop GUI can be in 3-D and have the ability tointegrate and control other cloud applications from the browser.

Several descriptions and illustrations have been presented to aid inunderstanding the present invention. One with skill in the art willrealize that numerous changes and variations may be made withoutdeparting from the spirit of the invention. Each of these changes andvariations is within the scope of the present invention.

What is claimed is:
 1. A virtual desktop data storage system comprising:a system computer having a processor coupled to a memory; a virtualserver running on the system computer and on a network adapted to managea plurality of user accounts, each user account including one or morehierarchical chains of user-created virtual desktops, wherein eachdesktop in a chain relates to particular subject matter and includes oneor more icons attached to files or functions related to the particularsubject matter, and wherein each virtual desktop in the one or morehierarchical chains is adapted to inherit properties from a virtualdesktop directly superior to it in the hierarchical chain, saidproperties including inheritance of icons and icon actions from thevirtual desktop directly superior to it; the virtual server configuredto support a user device operatively connected to the network thatincludes a web browser, the user device including a display and localstorage; the virtual server adapted to verify user access informationreceived from the user device for a particular user account and tocreate and display said virtual desktop and said icons on the display;wherein, said user-created virtual desktops are formatted using a stylelanguage and wherein, icons on said virtual desktops are linked to othervirtual desktops by a script language; and, wherein the virtual serveris constructed to integrate hardware devices including at least one of astreaming stereo hardware device or a streaming television hardwaredevice by using the user device's browser to control functions andcontent that is stored by the user account; wherein, the virtualdesktop, displayed on the user device and data coupled to the streamingtelevision or streaming stereo hardware device, becomes a virtual VCRfor video content and a virtual cassette deck for audio content.
 2. Thevirtual desktop data storage system of claim 1 wherein each user-createdvirtual desktop is formatted with a style-sheet language.
 3. The virtualdesktop data storage system of claim 1 wherein each user account isconfigured to select one or more of the icons for attaching files orfunctions, and at least some of the icons cause actions via a scriptlanguage.
 4. The virtual desktop data storage system of claim 1 whereinthe script language is JavaScript, and the style language is CascadingStyle Sheets (CSS).
 5. The virtual desktop data storage system of claim1 wherein each user account is configured to add a unique picture fileas a custom icon on any of the virtual desktops.
 6. The virtual desktopdata storage system of claim 1 wherein a first user account can create afirst virtual desktop, and wherein the first user account is configuredto also create a first sub-account, the first sub-account directlyinheriting a second virtual desktop directly chained to the firstvirtual desktop, and wherein the first sub-account is configured tocreate a second sub-account directly chained to the first sub-account,the second sub-account inheriting a third virtual desktop directlychained to the second virtual desktop.
 7. The virtual desktop datastorage system of claim 6, wherein the third virtual desktop is adaptedto inherit icons and their associated actions from the second virtualdesktop, and the second virtual desktop is adapted to inherit icons andtheir associated actions from the first virtual desktop.
 8. The virtualdesktop data storage system of claim 7, wherein one or more of thesecond and third virtual desktops are adapted to change the associatedactions of the icons inherited respectively from the first and secondvirtual desktops.
 9. The virtual desktop data storage system of claim 1wherein each user account is configured to select an icon from a libraryof icons and place it on a virtual desktop for access to particularfiles or functions.
 10. The virtual desktop data storage system of claim9 wherein each user account is configured to leave the icons in anoptions tab and still have access to the attached files or functionattached to said icons.
 11. The virtual desktop data storage system ofclaim 1, wherein the user device is a mobile telephone or handheld smartdevice.
 12. The virtual desktop data storage system of claim 1 whereinthe virtual server further comprises a web server, and the network isthe Internet or internal hub router.
 13. The virtual desktop datastorage system of claim 1, wherein each user account is configured toview or edit icons, view or edit files, view or edit virtual desktopsfrom a device having a browser that is connected to the Internet as thenetwork.
 14. The virtual desktop data storage system of claim 1, whereinthe virtual desktop integrates a virtual mobile device that stores voicemails, phone calls and other personal data into a virtual desktopstorage safe.
 15. A virtual desktop data storage system comprising asystem computer having a processor coupled to a memory; a virtual serverconnected to a network the system adapted to manage a plurality of useraccounts, each user account including one or more hierarchical chains ofvirtual desktops; wherein each virtual desktop in the one or morehierarchical chains is adapted to inherit properties from a virtualdesktop directly superior to it in the hierarchical chain, saidproperties including inheritance of icons and icon actions from thevirtual desktop directly superior to it; wherein an account user selectsa virtual desktop with icons and attached files to share with anotheraccount user; the virtual server configured to support a user devicewith a web browser operatively connected to the network and including adisplay and a storage; the virtual server adapted to verify user accessinformation received from the user device for a particular user account;the user device displaying at least one virtual desktop including iconswith attached files; the virtual desktop adapted to share icons withattached files with another account user having file rights controlledby the first account user; wherein, each virtual desktop is formattedwith Cascading Style Sheets (CSS); wherein, each icon initiates anaction using JavaScript; and wherein, the virtual server is constructedto integrate, one way or two way, receive-transmit hardware devicesincluding at least one of a streaming stereo, a streaming television,streaming device or appliance by using the user device's browser tocontrol functions and content that is stored by the user account;whereby, the virtual desktop becomes a virtual VCR for video content anda virtual cassette deck for audio content.
 16. The virtual desktop datastorage system of claim 15 wherein the virtual server has a systemstorage device, and files are saved to the system storage device. 17.The virtual desktop data storage system of claim 15 wherein a useraccount becomes a primary account to one or more shared user accounts assubaccounts.
 18. The virtual desktop data storage system of claim 17wherein each of the subaccounts has controlled access file rights to theshared virtual desktop.
 19. The virtual desktop data storage system ofclaim 18 wherein the controlled access file rights controlled accessincludes limiting subaccount access to particular file types.
 20. Avirtual desktop data storage system comprising: a system computer havinga processor coupled to a memory; a virtual server running on the systemcomputer and on a network adapted to manage a plurality of useraccounts, each user account including one or more hierarchical chains ofuser-created virtual desktops, wherein each virtual desktop in a chainrelates to particular subject matter and includes one or more iconsattached to files or functions related to the particular subject matter;wherein each virtual desktop in the one or more hierarchical chains isadapted to inherit properties from a virtual desktop directly superiorto it in the hierarchical chain, said properties including inheritanceof icons and icon actions from the virtual desktop directly superior toit; the virtual server configured to support a user device operativelyconnected to the network that includes a web browser, the user deviceincluding a display and local storage; the virtual server adapted toverify user access information received from the user device for aparticular user account and to create and display said virtual desktopand said icons on the display; wherein, said user-created virtualdesktops are formatted using a style language and wherein, icons on saidvirtual desktops are linked to other virtual desktops by a scriptlanguage; wherein, the virtual server is configured to integratehardware devices including at least one of a streaming stereo hardwaredevice or a streaming television hardware device using the user device'sbrowser to control functions and content that is stored by the useraccount; wherein, the virtual desktop, displayed on the user device anddata coupled to the streaming television or streaming stereo hardwaredevice, becomes a virtual VCR for video content or a virtual cassettedeck for audio content; wherein, each user account has a first passwordassociated with it; and, wherein each user account is configured tocreate one or more virtual desktops and has the option to add a secondpassword to access each virtual desktop created; wherein, each useraccount is configured to select an icon from a library of icons andplace it on a virtual desktop for access to particular files orfunctions; wherein, each user account is configured to leave the iconsin an options tab and still have access to the attached files orfunction attached to said icons; wherein, the virtual desktop integratesa virtual mobile device that can store voice mails, phone calls andother personal data into a virtual desktop storage safe; wherein, anaccount user creates virtual desktops and icons with functions for datastorage and share data files with other account users and other virtualdesktops controlling all file rights for each shared account user; and,wherein, each user account is configured to also create and manage oneor more sub-accounts and associate virtual desktops including icons withsub-account users, or share virtual desktops, icons with functions withother primary account users.
 21. A virtual desktop data storage systemcomprising: a system computer having a processor coupled to a memory; avirtual server running on the system computer and on a network adaptedto manage a plurality of user accounts, each user account including oneor more hierarchical chains of user-created virtual desktops, whereineach desktop in a chain relates to particular subject matter andincludes one or more icons attached to files or functions related to theparticular subject matter, and wherein each virtual desktop in the oneor more hierarchical chains is adapted to inherit properties from avirtual desktop directly superior to it in the hierarchical chain, saidproperties including inheritance of icons and icon actions from thevirtual desktop directly superior to it; the virtual server configuredto support a user device operatively connected to the network thatincludes a web browser, the user device including a display and localstorage; the virtual server adapted to verify user access informationreceived from the user device for a particular user account and tocreate and display said virtual desktop and said icons on the display;and, wherein, said user-created virtual desktops are formatted using astyle language and wherein, icons on said virtual desktops are linked toother virtual desktops by a script language.